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Originally a small trading settlement, Elk River was settled in the mid-1800s and eventually evolved into a bustling mill town. This small, eastern Minnesota city doesn't have the largest selection of tourist attractions, but there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation and historical and cultural enrichment.

Oliver H. Kelly Farm

Immerse yourself in mid-19th century farm country with a visit to the Oliver H. Kelly Farm (no website; 15788 Kelley Farm Road, Elk River; 763-441-6896). Built in the 1860s, this working farm transports you to a different time with guides and farm workers in period costumes. What you see on your tour depends on what needs to be done around the farm that day -- you may see farmers plowing the fields with teams of oxen one day and see them baling hay the next.

Golf Courses

Golf aficionados will find two golf courses serving Elk River and the surrounding area. At 1,830 yards, Pinewood Golf Course (no website; 18150 Waco St., Elk River; 763-441-3451) is made for players who want to improve their short game and iron work. This short, nine-hole course has a par of 30. The Elk River Golf Club (elkrivergc.com) is a completely different challenge. Small, elevated greens force players to carefully consider every shot and club choice -- a bad landing will roll your ball right off the green. Elk River Golf Club is a regulation-length 18-hole course with a par of 72.

Public Parks

Elk River has more than 40 parks covering more than 900 acres throughout the city. The Rivers Edge Commons on Main Street offers an inviting, relaxed atmosphere with its riverside location and splash fountain. Visitors are welcome to enjoy a concert at the amphitheater or relax in the gazebo and gaze out at the rolling river. If you enjoy mountain biking, head over to 181st Avenue, where you'll find the 80-acre Hillside City Park and its 6 miles of biking trails. Go to Orono Park on Gary Street to enjoy a summer picnic along the river. Go swimming off the beach, or launch a boat using the park's boat ramp. Picnic areas with grills, playground equipment and a sand volleyball court are available at the park.

ERX Motor Park

See motorized action any time of the year at the ERX Motor Park (erxmotorpark.com). During the winter, the motor park hosts Snocross, which is like a typical motocross race but with snowmobiles. Once the snow melts, ERX Motor Park clears the track for Beatercross, a motocross event for drivers in beat-up old junker cars. Between races, the track opens up to drivers that want to train for their next event.

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About the Author

Jarrett Melendez is a journalist, playwright and novelist who has been writing for more than seven years. His first published work was a play titled, "Oh, Grow Up!" which he wrote and performed with a group of his classmates in 2002.